Plant perennials and ground covers under crepe myrtle. Crepe myrtles are one of the popular choices for southern landscapes due to their showy displays of colorful flowers and foliage.
These graceful trees have a long bloom period that lasts from summer to fall. One way to enhance the beauty and functionality of your crepe myrtle garden is by planting perennials and ground covers underneath it. These plants not only add color and texture to the space but also help suppress weeds, retain moisture, and improve soil health. However, it’s important to choose the right plants that won’t compete with the shallow root system and tolerate the dappled shade conditions. In this article, we will discuss the top 10 plants that grow well under crepe myrtle and complement its aesthetic appeal.
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Factors To Consider When Planting Under Crepe Myrtle
When planting under a crepe myrtle, it’s important to consider a few factors such as soil ph and fertility requirements. This type of tree thrives best in slightly acidic soil with decent drainage, so it’s essential to ensure that the soil condition is optimal for the plants you choose to grow under it.
Additionally, crepe myrtles require a fair amount of sunlight and shade, depending on the climate and the time of day. As the tree provides dappled shade, plants that enjoy the same light requirements would be the best choices for planting under its canopy.
It’s also crucial to ensure that the planting area has adequate drainage and watering needs. With proper planning, your crepe myrtle can not only be aesthetically pleasing but also serve as a flourishing garden bed for other plants.
Best Plants To Grow Under Crepe Myrtle
Crepe myrtle is a popular ornamental tree that adds beauty to any garden. Planting under it not only enhances its beauty but also completes the look of your garden. Native groundcovers like creeping phlox and wild violets are a great choice to plant under crepe myrtle.
These plants require little maintenance and provide a dense cover to the ground. Perennials like hostas, ferns, and daylilies also grow well under crepe myrtle. They add color and texture to the area around the tree. Shrubs like dwarf loropetalum and japanese holly are perfect plants for underplanting.
They add height and structure to the garden. Planting native groundcovers, perennials, and shrubs is an excellent way to complete the look of your garden under crepe myrtle.
How & What to Plant Under Shade Trees?
Tips For Designing A Stunning Garden Under Crepe Myrtle
Designing a stunning garden under a crepe myrtle takes careful consideration of proper spacing and placement of plants. Incorporating layers of plants with different textures and colors creates depth and dimensionality to the garden. Choosing plants with seasonal interest means that the garden will look beautiful throughout the year.
When selecting plants to grow under a crepe myrtle, consider the amount of sunlight and water the plants will need. Remember that the trees have shallow roots, so avoid planting anything too close to the base of the tree. With a little bit of planning and planting, the area under a crepe myrtle can be a beautiful addition to any garden.
Maintenance And Care Of Plants Under Crepe Myrtle
Crepe myrtle is a fantastic plant to have in your garden. However, choosing the right plants to grow underneath it takes careful consideration. Pruning is an essential maintenance task to keep the plants healthy and looking their best. Fertilizing plants is just as important, and this should be done in the right season.
One of the biggest threats to the health of plants under crepe myrtle is weeds, so weed control is vital. Also, pest and disease management is necessary to ensure that your plants stay healthy and strong. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a flourishing garden under your beautiful crepe myrtle tree.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to plant under your crepe myrtle tree, there are a variety of options available. Whether you choose perennials, groundcovers, or annuals, make sure to consider the tree’s root system and shading. Choosing plants that thrive in moist soil or dappled sunlight will create a complementary and thriving landscape.
Additionally, adding mulch around the base of the tree will help retain moisture and prevent competition from weeds. As with any garden, make sure to take care of the plants you’ve chosen by regularly watering and fertilizing them. With a bit of planning and care, you can create a beautiful and healthy garden under your crepe myrtle that will enhance both the tree and the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space.
